The Korean War that started more than 60 years ago has separated millions of families. Since then, North and South Korea have organized and held irregular reunions for the separated families and loved ones. Every Korean separated from his loved one knows that the opportunity to participate in one of these reunions may only be once in a lifetime and that they may never be given second chances to touch and see their beloved.
South Korea uses a computerized lottery system to decide who will go while North Korea reportedly chooses according to loyalty to its authoritarian leadership. As noted by TIME, of 130,000 South Koreans who have submitted applications to attend since the war, almost 65,000 have already passed away. It has been fortunate that the reunions pushed through this October despite North Korea and South Korea's failing to follow through with cooperation agreements.
Hundreds of South Koreans travelled to North Korea's scenic Diamond Mountain Resort-the venue of the much and long awaited gathering. The three days reunions started this week and reunited hundreds of teary-eyed, anxious and hopeful elderly Koreans with their families. Everyone prepared for the wonderful event as they wore business suits, formal dresses and traditional hanbok and made sure they would look their best. The thoughtful Koreans brought presents and cash to give their family members.
A few stories touched the media and were featured in TIME.
One of which is the story of South Korean Lee Ok-yeon, 88, who reunited with her husband after 65 long years. As told by her grandson, Lee, in her happiness had "asked whether it was the rut was a dream or a reality".
Choi Hyeong-jin, in his 95th year, reunited this week with his youngest daughter since the latter was 2. After 62 years, the father was able to embrace her daughter once again.
These family reunions were one of the goals the two Koreas have been discussing about during summit talks. Indeed it was an emotional and memorable event to witness.
